Tyler YMCA changes membership policy after lesbian couple’s complaint

Feb 12, 2013

The Tyler YMCA quickly changed it membership policies after receiving a complaint from a lesbian couple that was refused a family membership. In January, the Tyler couple applied for family membership and their application was rejected because they did not fit the gym’s definition of family.

The couple created a Change.org petition that attracted more than 8,000 signatures.

In her petition, Suzy Sheridan said she and her partner have been together more than 20 years, but were told they’d need to show a marriage license before getting a family membership. She said 10 years earlier her family had a family membership when their son was on the swim team.

But rather than fight to exclude the couple, the YMCA revised their policy within a matter of weeks to be inclusive.

Now, the restrictions on the type of families accepted have been dropped and family memberships have been replaced with household memberships.

“*Household Membership are 2 adults and children under 21 [24 if enrolled in college (full-time)-must submit proof of registration annually] Additional adults can be added for an additional monthly fee of $15.00 per month. Required documentation will be ID and proof of residency such as driver’s license with current address or bill showing name and matching address. This membership includes facility usage, fitness group classes and discounted programs.”